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National Pet ID Week

April 15, 2016

Did you know that April 17-23 is National Pet ID Week? Making sure your pet has proper identification is very important! In fact, ID could even save your cherished pet’s life! Below, a Sharon, ON veterinarian discusses pet identification.

Microchipping

Is your pet microchipped? If not, we strongly recommend you get this done ASAP. Microchipping is a simple, easy process, which can be worked into any veterinary appointment or done on its own. The chip will be inserted under your pet’s skin with a hypodermic needle. Once your four-legged friend is chipped, you’ll need to fill out your records for the chip manufacturer’s database. When this is complete, your animal companion will have a permanent link to you. If your furry pal is ever lost or stolen, that tiny chip greatly increases the odds of you and your pet being reunited. Ask your vet for more information.

Tags

Even if your pet is microchipped, you still want to make sure your four-legged pal is wearing current ID tags. Tags are still the easiest way for people to connect you to your pet. We also recommend keeping copies of your furry buddy’s paperwork with you at all times. Put a set in your glove box, take pictures of them with your phone, or email them to yourself.

Carrier

If your furry friend has a crate or carrier, take a few moments to put your contact information on it. You can use luggage tags, or even a mailing label covered with clear tape. That way, if your furbaby is ever separated from you while traveling or at an emergency shelter, others can easily find your contact information.

Precautions

We recommend that kitties live indoors, where they are safe from cars, predators, and other dangers. Fluffy is also much more likely to get lost or hurt if she goes outside. As for Fido, if your pooch has a yard to patrol, make sure your fencing is secure. We also recommend keeping your dog on a leash whenever you take him off your property. As the saying says, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Do you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Does your furry friend need microchipping or vaccines? Call us today! As your Sharon, ON animal hospital, we are here to serve all of your pet’s veterinary care needs.